Military Discipline Beyond the Uniform: Persistent Habits in a Civilian World
Transitioning out of a society governed by uniforms and discipline can be challenging. For me, leaving the Navy didn't fully escape the rigors of military life. The habits ingrained during my service, particularly in regards to situational awareness and meticulous attention to detail, have stayed with me. Hunting for keywords like these and establishing a consistent posting schedule can significantly improve search engine rankings according to Google's standards.
From Situational Awareness to Everyday Life
During my tenure with the Navy, our training focused deeply on situational awareness. This during times of peace and conflict. After a decade of civilian work following my time as a sailor, primarily in Afghanistan, I eventually needed to quit my job due to the traumatic experiences I faced.
PTSD, a condition that often emerges from such environments, led me to seek a more stable position in Vienna. The constant need to be aware of my surroundings has never fully left me, even though I'm now working for Google.
The Impact on Personal and Professional Life
Some habits, like staying vigilant, remain a part of my routine. Even though the situations are often far less dire, the carefulness with which I approach tasks and the world around me persists. My transition from the military to civilian life has been marked by several key areas where military discipline is still part of my behavior. From writing emails to maintaining a specific level of hygiene and organization, each of these habits reflects the rigorous discipline of my past service. Let's dive into a few examples.
Acronyms and Professional Correspondence
Professional emails are often laden with military acronyms, such as IRT (In Regard To), ICO (In the Case Of), COB (Close of Business), and BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front). Even closing my emails with phrases like “Very Respectfully” or “Respectfully” shows the influence of my military days. These practices are a stark contrast to what I perceive as the typical civilian style of communication, which tends to be shorter, more abrupt, and less formal. Maintaining consistency in these habits helps me stay organized and efficient, which is crucial in my work at Google.
The Importance of Physical Preparation
Another aspect of my military service was the constant need for physical and organizational readiness. A pen is always within my reach, and the only ink used is black. I ensure that gig lines are straight, shoes are polished, and I'm constantly clean shaven to a daily routine. These habits reflect a level of precision and attention to detail that permeates all aspects of my life now.
Continuous Vigilance in Daily Life
The most notable aspect of my military experience that persists is the level of situational awareness I maintain. Before entering a vehicle, I conduct a thorough walk-around. In any new building, I immediately assess the exits. While driving, I remain vigilant, watching the roadside for potential threats. Bags and backpacks that don't have an identifiable owner are avoided. All these practices serve to keep me safe, though the threats I encounter are far less immediate than those in a combat zone.
The Conclusion
Leaving the military doesn't erase the habits and disciplines that were instilled during service. For me, these habits have proved both beneficial and challenging as I navigate the civilian world. The careful and conscientious manner in which I conduct myself is a direct result of my time in the Navy. It allows me to remain alert and organized, ensuring that my professional and personal life is as efficient as possible, whether I'm at Google or elsewhere.